United's Carrick faces injury layoff after ankle surgery

Manchester, England (SportsNetwork.com) - Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick will miss the start of the Premier League season after undergoing ankle surgery, the club confirmed on Thursday.

Carrick, 32, suffered ligament damage in his left ankle in training and could
miss up to 12 weeks of action while he recovers from surgery.

"Michael Carrick has had surgery this morning on his left ankle ligaments and
will be out for 10-12 weeks," the club said via Twitter.

Manager Louis van Gaal also confirmed the absence during his introductory
press conference.

"Michael Carrick was injured a few days ago and that is a big blow because he
is an experienced player," said Van Gaal. "It is very important to have
experienced player, not only in age, not only in football experience, but also
as a human being. My philosophy is not only as football player, but in total."

The Red Devils open their season on Aug. 16 against Swansea City at Old
Trafford.